Malpais Costa Rica is famous for its consistent waves, this area has beaches and villages that appear to becoming one big city. There is widespread development of the beachfront; the area is changing rapidly. This is a surf area and offers travelers a surf culture and lifestyle. The area runs north-to-south and Santa Teresa is the largest village. South of Santa Teresa lie the villages of Playa Carmen and Mal Pais. They are slowly merging together and many refer to the area as Mal Pais.

The best surfing is found in Santa Teresa and Playa El Carmen. The beautiful beaches stretch for miles. Please note that this travel destination is for experienced surfers. There is a lifestyle and culture that goes along with this. For some travelers, the surf culture will be appealing while for others, the trip may be long and the travel destination unrewarding.

Malpais Costa Rica — travel activities are as follows:

  • Surfing is the big attraction at the three local beaches.
  • Yoga is offered at several locations including Casa Zen, Milarepa and Horizon Yoga Hotel.
  • Horse back riding can be organized through local outfitters.
  • Fishing trips are offered by local shops and outfitters.
  • Boating tours around the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula are offered by fishermen in Mal Pais.

Malpais Costa Rica — Hotels

Malpais Costa Rica hotels are as follows:

surf at mal pais

Nicoya Costa Rica is a peninsula on the Pacific Ocean that offers some terrific beaches as well as an opportunity to see wildlife such as turtles.

turtles at ostional

Ostional National Wildlife Refuge is one of the world's most important turtle hatcheries. This site is located in the Nicoya Peninsula just north of Tamarindo.